Forbes Travel Guide’s 2013 Five-Star, Four-Star and Recommended winners will be announced tomorrow. One of the most frequent questions we’ll hear over the coming week is, “What does it take to earn a Five-Star rating?” Flawless service is on the checklist of more than 500 standards that our anonymous professional inspectors rate. And it doesn’t hurt to have a few distinct qualities separating your property from all the others. Over the past 12 months, some places have gone above and beyond with the luxury surprises. Here’s just a sampling of the unique trends and treats our inspectors noticed during their travels.
Best Foods We Ate
Crisp Atlantic skate wing tempura
Chocolate banana millefeuille
Suckling pig with cabbage and carrots
Creamy escargot and pork belly appetizer
Top Hotel Amenities We Saw
Heated toilet seats that automatically flush themselves
Tablet-controlled rooms
Rain coats and rain pants
Binoculars and eco-friendly metal water bottles
Heated bathroom floors and a TV in the shower
Complimentary Goodies We Took Home
Leather business card holder and personalized business cards
A universal adaptor plug
Slippers with a rubber bottom and a closet sachet
Essential oil salts
Cool Trends We Spotted
Thoughtful bath amenities, such as shaving kits, hair bands and loofahs
Notable turndown treats like port and truffles
Spa cafes are more prominent
Pet menus offered for in-room dining
Photos Courtesy of Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago, The Savor London, City of Dreams, Five Star Travel Corporation and Dave P
